New Delhi, Dec 7: Less than an hour after veteran Congress leader Mani Shankar called him a “neech aadmi”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tore into the main Opposition party and said he will continue to work for the poor and downtrodden sections of the society. Addressing an election rally in Surat on the last of campaigning for the first phase of Gujarat Assembly elections 2017, Modi asked people of the state to respond to Mani Shankar Aiyar’s remark through ballot.

“Yes, they called me “neech” but our value systems are strong. We have nothing to say to such elements. Our answer will come through the ballot box. We have seen enough insults from them. They insulted me when I was CM. They called me “maut ka saudagar” and wanted to jail me,” Modi said.

“They can call me ‘neech’- Yes, I am from the poor section of society and will spend every moment of my life to work for the poor, Dalits, Tribals and OBC communities. They can keep their language we will do our work. Let them keep calling me ‘neech’ we will not respond. In our hearts we do not have this mindset and want to congratulate them for theirs. If anything- we will answer them for their mindset by our votes on 9th and 14th (of December),” he added. (Also Read: Rahul Gandhi Wants Mani Shankar Aiyar to Apologise For ‘Neech’ Remark Against PM Modi)

They can call me ‘Neech’- Yes, I am from the poor section of society and will spend every moment of my life to work for the poor, Dalits, Tribals and OBC communities. They can keep their language we will do our work: PM @narendramodi#SuratWithModipic.twitter.com/0wCJqByZ7q